LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Payne Haas agreeing to join South Sydney from 2027 has left the rugby league world reeling.
Fans and commentators alike are waiting nervously for the ten-day cooling-off period to finish before allowing themselves to celebrate.
In terms of transfer coups, few moves in Souths' long history have felt as seismic as this one.
Even comparisons to past greats like Greg Inglis have been floated, though that discussion can wait.
There is something invigorating about a signing that arrives with no preceding whispers or leaks.
Usually big announcements come with hints and speculation, but this switch landed seemingly out of nowhere.
Wayne Bennett has once more orchestrated a stunning result, just as he often manages to do.
The reported influence of former Bronco David Fifita on Haas' decision was also cited as a significant factor.
Souths have secured a true game-changing forward, which immediately raises expectations inside Redfern.
Bringing in a player of Haas' calibre means the club can't afford to underperform.
Committing lots of salary cap space to the middle of the park departs from prevailing roster strategies.
Meanwhile, questions remain about the rest of the spine, with Cody Walker older and recently injury-prone.
Competition from youngsters like Ashton Ward, Jamie Humphreys and incoming Jonah Glover will be vital.
By 2027 the Bunnies could boast a dominant pack, but assembling a complementary playmaking spine remains the challenge.